Singaporeans can look forward to a vibrant celebration of Japan’s railway culture as the annual Japan Rail Fair (TJRF) returns for its sixth edition, announced in a press release on September 18. Organised by a subsidiary of the renowned East Japan Railway Company, the fair will be held from October 9 to 11 at Guoco Tower's Urban Park, and entry is free for all visitors. This three-day event coincides with Japan’s Railway Day on October 14 and promises an immersive experience for rail enthusiasts, families, and culture lovers alike.

The fair will feature 23 interactive booths, some representing Japanese prefectures such as Aomori, Nagano, and Gunma, allowing visitors to explore the local culture, history, and attractions of these regions. This year’s theme, “Stamp Your Way Through Japan,” centres around a large-scale eki stamp rally, where participants can collect six unique stamps along with a multi-layered centerpiece stamp. Eki stamps, found at train stations across Japan, are free collectible rubber ink stamps that often showcase designs reflecting the station’s local area. Completing the stamp rally ticket enters participants into a daily lucky draw at 7 p.m., offering prizes such as round-trip tickets with Japan Airlines and AirJapan, JR East passes, snack boxes, and exclusive souvenirs from exhibitors. In addition, 300 goodie bags will be distributed over the course of the fair to stamp rally participants.

Food lovers will enjoy a variety of Japanese culinary delights at dedicated F&B booths. Katanukiya will serve layered cakes shaped like animals and Sanrio characters, Yotsuba Milk will offer fresh Hokkaido milk, and Hinemos will feature a selection of sake. The nearby Japan Rail Cafe will also present a special Hirosaki-inspired menu from October 1 to 31, featuring apple-based treats like Apple Tart, Apple Parfait, and Apple Fizz, celebrating the region’s famous apples.

The fair also offers family-friendly entertainment, including traditional cultural performances such as suzume odori, or sparrow dance, cheer routines by the Albirex Niigata Singapore Cheer Dance School, and instrumental showcases by Wind Ensemble Nippon Singapore. Visitors can take photos with Azumino’s mascot or participate in a unique session with Japan Airlines cabin crew, where children can don the airline uniform for memorable snapshots.

Travel enthusiasts can explore the offerings of Japan Airlines, AirJapan, and the Nippon Ski Resort Development Group at the fair’s tourism booths, which include exclusive travel deals. Stage presentations by select participants, including Japan Airlines and the Japan National Tourism Organisation, will showcase lesser-known destinations and hidden gems across Japan, providing inspiration for future trips.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Urban Park at Guoco Tower, the fair runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. With its combination of cultural experiences, interactive activities, food, and travel insights, the Japan Rail Fair promises to transport visitors on a journey through Japan’s rich railway heritage without leaving Singapore.